Mainly Mozart Named Anne-Marie McDermott Artistic Director
The pianist returns to lead the organization's 12-concert Spotlight series starting in 2027.
Updated on Oct. 1, 2026 in Classical
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San Diego nonprofit Mainly Mozart has appointed pianist Anne-Marie McDermott as the new Artistic Director of its Spotlight series. McDermott, who previously curated the series from 2011 to 2020, will oversee the 2027 season.
Why it matters
The appointment signals a return to familiar leadership for the organization following the tenure of CEO Nancy Laturno, who curated the series between 2022 and 2026. This transition marks the latest chapter for the 37-year-old nonprofit as it resumes programming at The Scripps Research Auditorium.
The 2027 series includes 12 concerts featuring music by Mozart, Brahms, Beethoven, Debussy, Radiohead, and Leonard Cohen. Auditorium tickets range from $65 to $95, while club venue tickets are priced between $125 and $250.
The players
Anne-Marie McDermott
She is a renowned pianist and festival curator who recently finished a 16-year term as the Artistic Director of the Bravo! Vail Music Festival.
Mainly Mozart
This San Diego-based nonprofit organization has been a staple of the local classical music scene for 37 years.
Nancy Laturno
She serves as the CEO of Mainly Mozart and previously curated the organization's Spotlight series from 2022 to 2026.
The details
Performances will take place on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays between January and May 2027 across various concert halls and private homes. Key venues include The Scripps Research Auditorium in La Jolla and the La Valle Coastal Club in Rancho Santa Fe.
Timeline
Anne-Marie McDermott first performed at Mainly Mozart in 1996.
McDermott previously served as series curator from 2011 to 2020.
Nancy Laturno managed the series from 2022 until 2026.
The 2027 Spotlight series will run from January through May 2027.
Industry Dynamics
This move highlights the ongoing movement of veteran artistic leaders between major regional music festivals. It positions Mainly Mozart to leverage McDermott's extensive curatorial experience to compete for audiences in the evolving post-pandemic classical concert landscape.
Local classical music enthusiasts can expect performances to resume at The Scripps Research Auditorium, with tickets now available for purchase. Patrons can choose between auditorium-style seating or more intimate club settings depending on the venue.
The takeaway
The return of a familiar curator suggests a strategic focus on established programming formats to draw consistent local attendance. Attendees should check venue-specific ticket tiers before booking to secure their preferred concert experience.
Further reading
Find more local concert updates in the Classical section.
More information
Purchase tickets for upcoming performances on the Mainly Mozart ticket purchase portal.
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